Congestion busting scheme to take place

A scheme to cut congestion and help reduce car journeys along a key route into Leicester is to take place.

During March and April, Leicestershire County and Leicester City councils will contact residents living on or near to the A426 in Aylestone, Blaby, Eyres Monsell, Glen Parva and Whetstone to highlight how easy it is to use public transport, walk or cycle for local journeys.

As part of the door-to-door surveys people will be asked about their travel patterns and given information and advice about alternative travel options, including improved bus services.

The initiative is the next phase of a £5m project to make improvements and reduce congestion along the busy A426 Aylestone Road.

Last year work was carried out along the road including the installation of new bus lanes, cycle facilities and improvements to junctions.

Peter Osborne, Leicestershire County Council cabinet member for highways and transport, said:

“The work that’s been carried out by partners on the A426 means bus journey times are quicker, cycling is safer and there are more crossing points for pedestrians.

“Arriva Midlands has also launched its refurbished ‘Breeze’ buses along the route.

“The infrastructure is all in place and we are now working with the city council in this next phase of the project to make residents aware of the sustainable travel options available to them for journeys in and out of the city which will, in turn, hopefully reduce congestion on this busy route.”

Leicester City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “These improvements to the A426 mean its now better than ever for all road users including buses and cyclists.

“The scheme is now settling down and we’re getting lots of positive feedback.

“This latest work is to ensure that residents can make the most of these new facilities in their daily travel planning.”

The scheme to improve the A426 has been carried out thanks to funding from the city and county councils, the Department for Transport and Arriva.

For more on Leicestershire County Council’s Choose How You Move campaign, which aims to encourage residents to get fit, save money, have fun and help the environment by leaving their cars at home visit: www.leics.gov.uk/choosehowyoumove